Our Roots

In 1940 a group of community members came together to support local families who suffered loss of employment and the loss of family members as a result of WWII.

The group knit socks, produced medical bandages, assisted families with food and urgent living costs and provided counselling for soldiers returning from war. The counselling took many forms: helping strengthen re-united families; supporting soldiers as they faced post experience trauma; walking with soldiers as they found meaningful employment.

The services grew and, in 1961, Family Counselling Centre (our name at the time) incorporated as a non-profit agency and acquired charitable status in 1967. Founding members continued their contribution to the community by extending their reach and establishing the Cambridge Kin Club and the United Way of Cambridge and North Dumfries. In October of 2022, we rebranded to Porchlight Counselling and Addiction Services, renewing our long-standing commitment to Cambridge and North Dumfries. 

Our Funding

We are grateful for donors and financial supporters who extend the availability of funding to all people. Without their support, we would not be able to continue to provide the quality of services currently available.

Federal Government

• Canada Summer Jobs 
  

Provincial Government 

• Ministry of the Attorney General
• Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services 
• Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism 
• Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
  

Municipal Governments 

• City of Cambridge
• Township of North Dumfries
• Region of Waterloo

Foundations and Granting Bodies 

• Astley Family Foundation
• Bell Let's Talk
• Cambridge and North Dumfries Community Foundation 
• Canadian Women's Foundation
• Dian and John Bell Family Fund - Waterloo Region Community Foundation
• Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation 
• Lyle S Hallman Family Foundation
• Ontario Trillium Foundation
• United Way Waterloo Region Communities
  

Individual donations from private citizens (like you!)